Simple Chicken Parmesan Casserole
This hearty and satisfying Chicken Parmesan Casserole is a simplified take on the Italian classic. With breaded chicken tenders, rigatoni noodles, mozzarella, parmesan, and marinara sauce, it’s a one-dish meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Tips
- Freshly Shred Cheese: Use freshly shredded mozzarella for better melting and a creamier texture. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that hinder proper melting.
- Breading Options: The crispy breaded chicken adds texture, but plain cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken works too if you prefer.
- Boost Nutrition: Add cooked vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or bell peppers into the layers for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Kick it Up: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top for a hint of heat.
- Customize the Pasta: Rigatoni works great, but you can swap it for penne, fusilli, or any short pasta you have on hand. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti.
Ingredients
- Pasta and Sauce:
- 8 oz rigatoni noodles, cooked al dente
- 24 oz pasta sauce (marinara or your favorite variety)
- Chicken:
- 29 oz breaded chicken tenders, cooked according to package instructions
- Cheese:
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Preheat the oven according to the chicken tender package instructions. Cook chicken tenders as directed, then cut each tender into 4-5 bite-sized pieces once done.
- Cook Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook for 10-12 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Stir gently to combine.
- Layer the Casserole: Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray if not using a non-stick dish. Add half of the pasta mixture to the bottom of the dish and spread it evenly. Top with half of the chicken pieces and sprinkle half of the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the chicken. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, chicken, and cheeses.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and enjoy!
FAQs
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent the top from drying out. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.
Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Enjoy this easy, cheesy, and comforting casserole for a satisfying family dinner!
Simple Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Equipment
- 1 Casserole Dish
Ingredients
- 8 oz rigatoni noodles cooked al dente
- 29 oz chicken tenders
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 c parmesan cheese
- 24 oz pasta sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven, and cook the chicken according to package directions.
- While the chicken is cooking, fill a large pot halfway with water, bring to a boil over high heat, then add the noodles. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, until the noodles are al dente. Strain the water, and set aside.
- When the chicken is done, cut each tender into 4-5 pieces.
- Heat oven to 375 degrees.
- Add the noodles, sauce, and half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese to a large bowl, and gently toss.
- If not using a non-stick casserole dish, spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Add half of the pasta mixture to the dish, and spread out. Then add half of the chicken spread over the mixture, as well as half of the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Repeat these layers one more time.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Serve hot, and enjoy!
Nutrition
Nutrition values are estimates, for exact values consult a nutritionist.
